Sloppy Joes are a classic American dish that's super easy to make and loved by both kids and adults. Imagine a tasty mixture of ground beef, onions, and peppers, all covered in a tangy and sweet sauce. You put this yummy mix on a bun, and you have a Sloppy Joe!
It's the perfect meal for busy days, picnics, or when you just want something quick and delicious. Plus, you can make a big batch and save some for later. You only need a few basic ingredients like ground beef, buns, and some spices. Let's get cooking!
Why This Recipe Works
The first thing that's cool about this recipe is that it's super simple. You just need ground beef, some ketchup, a bit of mustard, and a few spices. Most of this stuff is probably already sitting in your kitchen. You mix it all in one pot, let it cook a little, and you're done. It’s a no-fuss, no-mess recipe that’s easy on your budget.
Another good thing is you can change it up however you like. Want it spicy? Throw in some hot sauce or chopped peppers. Not a fan of beef? Use turkey or even lentils if you’re going for a veggie version. This recipe is flexible. You can make it your own and it will still turn out great. So, it's not just quick and cheap; it's also a meal that can match your mood.
Ingredients
Ground Beef - The meat of the dish. You can use around 1 pound. If you're looking for a substitute, ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian version work well.
Onion - Adds flavor. One medium onion, finely chopped. No onion? Try onion powder or even a bit of garlic.
Tomato Sauce - About one 15-ounce can. This makes the 'sauce' part of Sloppy Joes. Ketchup can be used as a last-resort substitute.
Green Bell Pepper - Adds a crunch and some color. One medium-sized, chopped. If you don't have it, it's okay to skip.
Worcestershire Sauce - Adds a tangy kick. About 1 tablespoon. Soy sauce can be a substitute, but use less as it's saltier.
Tips
- Drain excess fat from the meat after browning for a less oily result.
- For spicier Sloppy Joes, add a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes.
- Taste the sauce before you finish cooking to adjust salt, sugar, or other seasonings.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Serve
Sloppy Joes are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Generally, they are spooned onto hamburger buns and eaten like a sandwich. Feel free to add some lettuce or cheese for extra flavor and texture.
- Sloppy Joe Sliders - Use small buns and serve as a bite-sized appetizer.
- Sloppy Joe Tacos - Spoon the mixture into soft tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
- Sloppy Joe Rice Bowl - Put a scoop of the mixture on a bed of cooked rice, maybe even add some veggies like corn or peas.
Similar Recipes
Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 1 15- ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 medium green bell pepper chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart, cooking until it's no longer pink.
- Drain the excess fat and return the meat to the pan.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables soften.
- Add the tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve on hamburger buns or as desired.
Nutrition
Notes
- Drain excess fat from the meat after browning for a less oily result.
- For spicier Sloppy Joes, add a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes.
- Taste the sauce before you finish cooking to adjust salt, sugar, or other seasonings.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.